Introduction
Transform everyday ingredients into a vibrant and healthy salad that’s bursting with flavor! This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or potluck contribution. We’ll focus on maximizing the fresh, natural flavors of the vegetables while creating a refreshing and nutritious meal. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make classic!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s incredibly versatile, adaptable to your taste preferences, and relies on fresh, healthy ingredients. The simple marinade enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and cucumbers while adding a delightful tang. It’s also incredibly accessible, requiring minimal preparation and readily available ingredients. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. The focus on fresh produce ensures a light and healthy meal option, fitting perfectly into a balanced diet.
Key Ingredients
🍅 2 large tomatoes, diced
🥒 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
🧅 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
🍋 2 tablespoons lemon juice
💧 2 tablespoons olive oil
🧂 1 teaspoon sea salt
🌿 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
🧄 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Vegetables: Gently wash and dice the tomatoes, thinly slice the cucumber and red onion. Chop the fresh parsley. Mince the garlic (if using).
2️⃣ Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and sliced red onion.
3️⃣ Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if using).
4️⃣ Marinate the Salad: Pour the marinade over the vegetable mixture, gently tossing to ensure all the vegetables are coated.
5️⃣ Rest and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it marinates (up to 2 hours), the more intense the flavors will become. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For a crispier cucumber, use a mandoline slicer to ensure even, thin slices.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your liking. If you prefer a more tart salad, add a little extra lemon juice.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Heat Control
This recipe doesn’t involve any heat. The focus is on the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients and the simple marinade.
Crunch Factor
The combination of crisp cucumber and slightly firm tomatoes provides a satisfying crunch, balanced by the softer red onion. This textural contrast is a key element of the salad’s appeal.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a quicker marinade, gently massage the marinade into the vegetables before refrigerating.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the lemon juice.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as dill or mint, to create unique flavor profiles.
Storage Tips
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors might mellow slightly over time, but the salad will still be delicious.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This salad makes a wonderful and healthy gift! Package it in a pretty glass jar or a reusable container, decorated with a ribbon. Include a small card with the recipe so your recipient can recreate it.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Mediterranean Twist: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of oregano.
🌟 Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
🌟 Herby Delight: Add chopped fresh dill, mint, or chives for a fragrant boost.
🌟 Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup into the marinade for a subtle sweetness.
Troubleshooting
- Watery Salad: If your salad is too watery, gently press the cucumber slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before adding them to the bowl.
- Bland Salad: If the salad lacks flavor, add a little more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to taste. You can also let it marinate a little longer.
FAQ
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! In fact, the flavors meld beautifully when marinated for at least 30 minutes. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance.
- Can I use different types of onions? Yes, you can experiment with white or yellow onions, but red onion provides the best flavor and color contrast.
- What can I substitute for olive oil? You can use avocado oil or another mild-flavored oil.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots and zucchini would all be great additions.
- Is this salad suitable for vegetarians/vegans? Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian and vegan.
Conclusion
This marinated cucumber, onion, and tomato salad is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. Its simplicity and versatility make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with friends and family. We encourage you to experiment with different flavor combinations and make it your own! Enjoy!
Summer's Best Light & Bright Salad: Hydrating & Healthy
A refreshing salad packed with hydrating ingredients, perfect for warm summer days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup watermelon, cubed
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, watermelon, feta cheese, red onion, and mint leaves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Tips
- For added crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts.
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just add the dressing right before serving to keep it fresh.